Monstrous Flesh Monstrous Flesh

"Suzy Banyon decided to perfect her ballet studies in the most famous school of dance in Europe. She chose the celebrated academy of Freiburg. One day, at nine in the morning, she left Kennedy airport, New York, and arrived in Germany at 10:40 p.m. local time..."

This week, Clelia and Meg delve into the eerie world of Suspiria, examining both Dario Argento's 1977 classic and Luca Guadagnino's 2018 reimagining. Join us as we compare the unique styles, narratives, and themes of these two horror masterpieces.

We begin with Argento’s original, a technicolor nightmare that revolutionised horror with its striking visuals, haunting Goblin score, and unforgettable atmosphere. What elements make this film a timeless piece of horror history?

Then, we shift to Guadagnino’s ambitious remake, a film that replaces the original’s vivid colors with a muted, dread-filled palette and adds new layers of psychological and political complexity. How does this version stand on its own, and what fresh dimensions does it bring to the sinister dance academy?

Clelia and Meg discuss standout performances, especially Jessica Harper and Dakota Johnson as Suzy Bannion, and delve into the thematic contrasts, exploring how each film addresses femininity, power, and terror.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Argento’s classic or intrigued by Guadagnino’s fresh take, this episode offers a thoughtful analysis of two films that, while sharing the same bones, provide distinctly different experiences. Tune in for a captivating conversation that honors the eerie brilliance of Suspiria in all its forms.

Wouldst thou like the taste of butter? A pretty dress? Wouldst thou like to live deliciously?

Join your host Meg and Clelia for an in depth discussion of Robert Eggers 2015 breakout film The VVitch.

From the haunting ambiance of 17th century New England to the complex portrayal of a family's descent into despair and darkness, there's no stone left unturned.

Light your candles and join us, lest ye be left in the dark!



***

Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk

Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows).

***

Cover art by Kurakurakucing

Every country in the world has witches. And there is a leader, a high witch of each country. And the ruler of all the witches is The Most Evil Woman in creation… The Grand High Witch… Herself.
In this episode we dive into the wicked world of "The Witches" (1990). We are joined by Emily Smith, PhD student at the University of Nottingham, specialising in the representation of Witches in the 20th Century.
Join us as we explore the portrayal of witches as liberated women, unshackled from the confines of the cisgender heterosexual-patriarchy, who unabashedly embrace their monstrosity.
From the cackling delight of the Grand High Witch to the mischievous antics of her cohorts, we delve deep into the magic and mischief that define these captivating characters.



***

Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk

Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows).

***

Cover art by Kurakurakucing

Now is the time. This is the hour. Ours is the magic. Ours is the power. Now is the time. This is the hour. Ours is the magic. Ours is the power...

In this inaugural episode, we explore covens, female friendships and rivalry, as we delve into the mystical world of "The Craft" (1996).

Join us as we explore the blurred lines between light and dark magic, question who the true protagonist of this film really is and ponder the age-old query: Who gets to decide what anyone deserves?



***

Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk

Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows).

***

Cover art by Kurakurakucing

Never waste your pain...

Hosts Clelia & Meg are joined by Eli Lewy, co-director of the Final Girls Berlin Film Festival, to discuss Saint Maud (Rose Glass, 2020), ahead of the start of the 9th Edition of the Final Girls Berlin Film Festival at City Kino Wedding & Online, February 7-11, 2024.

Find out more about this year's program and how to attend here

Final Girls YouTube Channel: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4ZsW6grgbr9GcoZcBS2Okg⁠⁠

***

WARNING: Spoilers, explicit language

***

You can keep up with Eli's work and listen to her podcast 'Somebody's Watching':

Somebody's Watching Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/somebodyswatching (or wherever you listen to podcasts) 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somebodyswatchingpod/

***

Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk

Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows).

***

Cover art by Sobi Graphie

If you want to leave it alive leave it ALONE ..!
Hosts Meg & Clelia are joined by the amazing Carlota Pereda, writer director of Piggy (2022) and The Chapel (coming soon) to discuss the 1976 Spanish cult classic Who Can Kill A Child, by Narcisso Ibanez Serrador.
***
WARNING: Spoilers, explicit language
***
Find out more about Monstrous Flesh, our reading list for episodes and upcoming events via our website monstrousflesh.co.uk
Follow Clelia (@monstrous_flesh) and Meg (@monstrous_meg) on Instagram, Threads and X. Sound design, editing and theme music by Adam Hynes (@adamnarrows).
***
Cover art by Sobi Graphie